Coliban Water is welcoming Expressions of Interest (EOI) from landowners and business operators interested in using recycled water generated from the Heathcote Water Reclamation Plant.
Heathcote’s growing population has resulted in increased wastewater inflows, which in turn, is resulting in the plant producing more recycled water.
Chief Officer Assets and Operations Danny McLean said to keep pace with recycled water production, new options are being considered for recycled water re-use in the region.
“We are committed to finding further sustainable end-use options to help meet long-term water needs. Recycled water will play a key role in this,” Mr McLean said.
“This is an exciting opportunity for potential re-use customers, as recycled water is safe for many uses, often more reliable than other water sources, and rich in nutrients.”
For more than 20 years the Heathcote Golf Club has successfully irrigated its course with recycled water and will continue to do so.
“In the coming years we are expecting an increase in the amount of recycled water available under a long-term agreement,” Mr McLean said.
“We look forward to forming new partnerships with customers in this space and building on existing successful partnerships within the community.”
Anyone within 10km of Heathcote interested in using recycled water, can apply. After completing an EOI, staff will meet with applicants to go through a more detailed assessment of their needs and then work with preferred customer/s to develop an appropriate solution.
Currently the plant in Heathcote treats wastewater from almost 900 residential, business and industrial customers using lagoon-based biological treatment processes.
The recycled water produced is Class C, suitable for use on food crops. It can also be used for agriculture or to irrigate public spaces, such as sporting grounds and golf courses.
Expressions of Interest are now open, and applicants have until 5pm on Monday 14 August to submit an application.
Visit connect.coliban.com.au/heathcote-recycled-water-initiative to learn more or submit an EOI.